Kennedy, Randle among Hall finalists

One defensive lineman who played his entire career with the Seahawks (Cortez Kennedy) and another who spent only three seasons with the team (John Randle) are among the 17 finalists for election to this year’s Pro Football Hall of Fame class.

A group of 25 semifinalists was reduced to 15 – plus two senior committee nominees – and those names were announced this afternoon.

This is the first time Kennedy has been a finalist.

“I’m just thrilled to death, and humbled, to be in the Final 15,” Kennedy said when reached by phone at his house in Florida – where he is raising his 13-year-old daughter, Courtney.

“It’s one of those things you want to happen, but can’t really believe it ever will.”

Kennedy is one of five finalists who spent his entire career with one team. Randle played 11 seasons with the Vikings before finishing his career with the Seahawks (2001-03).

The 2009 class will be selected Jan. 31, the day before the Super Bowl, in Tampa. At least four candidates must be elected, but no more than seven. A finalist must receive a minimum of 80 percent positive votes to be elected.